Every week the Gazette will delve into its archives to see what was happening in Islington 30 and 60 years ago.
60 years ago: August 1, 1986
A Holloway couple drowned together on a fishing trip, an inquest heard.
Husband and wife Eric Davies, 25, and Dinah Davies, 19, of Medina Road, fell from their boat on the River Crouch in Hullbridge, Essex.
Mrs Davies was seen pulling up the anchor rope when the rowing boat turned over.
Eyewitness Sylvia Castle said: “The water was very choppy and a fast current was running. I then saw the boat overturn, and the woman trying to hold on to it. I didn’t see the man at all. I then saw the woman’s hands sticking out of the water.”
Mrs Davies’ body was found 40m away. Mr Davies - who couldn’t swim - was found dead about a mile down the river.
Dr L.F. Beccle, coroner for south east Essex, recorded a verdict of accidental death.
30 years ago: August 3, 1956
A Barnsbury man who killed a squatter who had invaded his home was moved to a secret address over fears of a revenge attack.
Islington Council found electrician Peter Wilson a new home after a court ruled self-defence and he was cleared of murder.
Mr Wilson, 39, was living in Thornhill House, Thornhill Road, when he confronted Anthony Cotter, 27, and two others trying to break into a flat next door on June 2.
Later, they got drunk and armed themselves with pool cues and a knife. They ambushed Mr Wilson as he returned from work. His door was smashed down. A struggle ensued and he stabbed Cotter in the heart. Clerkenwell magistrate Michael Johnson said: “There is no case for him to answer.”
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